Tuesday, Jan. 25: The first Innovation Night of 2011 takes place from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at McMaster University's new Ron Joyce Centre in Burlington. Participants must pre-register to pitch their ideas. Innovation Night provides access to the region's thought leaders in start-up strategy, providing invaluable input and support on those critical first steps in transitioning an idea into a business.

Friday, Jan. 28: Three-time Grammy winner Tom Scott in concert at Mohawk College at 8 p.m. in the McIntyre Theatre at the Fennell Campus. (Master class Jan. 27). Presented by the Steeltown Friends of Mohawk Music. Tickets are $30 and $20 for students and can be ordered online or by calling 905.974.1927. The public is also invited to a master class being conducted by Tom with Mohawk students and moderated by Hamilton Spectator music editor Graham Rockingham on Thursday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. in the McIntyre Theatre.